Naoussa is nestled in a region of hills, rivers, and waterfalls, offering ideal conditions for vine cultivation. Its vineyards thrive in this landscape, sheltered from cold winds—perfect for growing the Xinomavro grape variety. This grape produces a wine known for its deep color, full body, and aging potential, and is protected under the Designation of Superior Quality Origin.
The relationship between Naoussa and wine is longstanding, deeply rooted in the area’s tradition and history, reaching back to antiquity and the worship of Dionysus. Since the 16th century, Naoussa’s wine was recognized as one of the finest in the region, with European travelers of the 19th century confirming its quality. In the early 20th century, the wine began to reach European and African markets, and in 1905, it became the first wine in Greece to be officially bottled and labeled.
Though the vineyards were severely affected by phylloxera in the late 19th century, viticulture was revived in the late 1960s with the introduction of resistant rootstocks and modern techniques. In 1971, Naoussa was officially recognized as a Protected Designation of Origin zone, and in 1987, the city was honored as a “City of Vine and Wine.”
Today, Naoussa continues to produce high-quality wines, especially from the Xinomavro grape, which have earned recognition and appreciation around the world.
Just 2 kilometers from the center of Naoussa, Agios Nikolaos Grove is one of the region’s most renowned and beloved destinations, ideal for all seasons. Spanning approximately 60 acres of lush greenery, with centuries-old plane trees and the crystal-clear springs of the Arapitsa River flowing through its paths, it offers unique moments of relaxation, natural beauty, and recreation.
The grove features a playground, an artificial lake with ducks and trout, sports courts, a swimming pool, a game breeding center, as well as restaurants and cafés by the water. At its heart stands the picturesque church of Agios Nikolaos, a popular venue for weddings and baptisms. Thanks to its exemplary ecological management and inclusion in the European Route of Historic Gardens, the grove is a major point of reference for visitors from all over Greece and the Balkans.
Located just 17 km from Naoussa and 15 km from Agios Nikolaos, 3-5 Pigadia offers a complete mountain experience. Situated at an altitude ranging from 1,430 to 2,005 meters, the resort features slopes suitable for all skill levels—from beginners to advanced skiers—such as Paradisos, Aristotelis, and Philippos, as well as endurance trails up to 10 km.
The facilities include a ski equipment rental shop, dining options both at the base and summit, and the opportunity to explore the enchanting snow-covered slopes of Mount Vermio on snowmobiles.
Just a stone’s throw from Karatasou Square, the Municipal Park of Naoussa spans 30 acres of lush greenery with panoramic views over the plain. It is considered a rare Monument of Landscape Architecture and is part of the European Landscape Heritage (HEREIN), blending French garden design lines from the 1930s with the English naturalistic style of 1959.
Along its pathways, you’ll find centuries-old trees, colorful seasonal flowers, a 1.5-acre artificial lake with signature wooden bridges, and a central fountain. On one end flows the Arapitsa River, while the other is marked by the open-air municipal theatre. The park is also home to the Monument of Sacrifice, where one of the most dramatic chapters in Naoussa’s history unfolded in April 1822.
At the location known as “Stoumpanoi,” next to the waterfalls of the Arapitsa River, stands one of the most powerful symbols of modern Greek history: the Monument of Sacrifice of the women of Naoussa. In April 1822, during the Holocaust of the city, dozens of women chose to leap into the raging waters with their children, preferring death to captivity.
In 1973, in memory of this heroic act, a bronze statue of the Naoussa mother was erected, created by sculptor Katerina Chalepa-Katsatou. Her figure, proud and protective, holds her children tightly just before the fatal leap, embodying strength, dignity, and self-sacrifice.
Today, the site is a place of remembrance and reflection, and it rightfully earned Naoussa the honorary title of “Heroic City” in 1955.
Το ιστορικό και λαογραφικό μουσείο της Νάουσας, βρίσκεται στην διεύθυνση Αγίου Δημητρίου 10, δίπλα/πίσω από την εκκλησία του Αγίου Δημητρίου. Περιλαμβάνει την συλλογή του Λυκείου Ελληνίδων Νάουσας. Το τηλέφωνο του μουσείου είναι 2332021713.
A short distance from Naoussa, in the enchanting area of Isvoria, lies Aristotle’s School—one of the most important historical and intellectual sites in Macedonia. It is here that the great philosopher Aristotle taught the young Alexander the Great and his peers. The landscape, with its abundant waters, shady caves, and rich vegetation, offers an environment of exceptional natural and spiritual value.
At the Sanctuary of the Nymphs—also known as the Nymphaeum of Mieza—architectural remains such as the foundation of a two-story stoa with Ionic columns still stand, testifying to the site’s significance in the 4th century BC.
Tradition, history, and natural beauty blend harmoniously at the modern Cultural Center of Aristotle’s School. This well-equipped venue hosts cultural events and includes exhibition areas, a screening and conference hall, a café, and visitor facilities. Here, visitors can explore the philosophical and historical importance of the site while experiencing culture in nature—uncovering the deep connection between this place, ancient thought, and global cultural heritage.
In addition to its renowned reputation in winemaking—especially for the Xinomavro variety—Naoussa also stands out for its production of high-quality spirits, with tsipouro holding a special place in local tradition. The distillation season begins every autumn, right after the grape harvest. According to Greek law, the “kazania” (traditional distillation cauldrons) start operating on September 27 and remain active for about two months.
Distillation in Naoussa is more than just a process—it’s an unofficial ritual that requires skill, proper equipment, and strong fire. At the same time, the local distilleries host festive gatherings featuring residents, visitors, and cultural associations. These traditional feasts offer local delicacies such as the region’s famous pies, the distinct pickled eggplants with mustard known as “gavopsara,” local meats, cheeses, and, of course, plenty of Xinomavro wine.
Amid this warm and celebratory atmosphere, the freshly distilled tsipouro is bottled—ready to accompany winter moments at family and friendly gatherings—continuing a centuries-old tradition of Macedonian hospitality and wine culture.
Deeply rooted in Naoussa’s Christmas heritage, the tradition of Kartsounos is revived every year in the neighborhoods of the town, from Christmas Eve through New Year’s Day. It centers around the lighting of large bonfires—made from logs, tree roots, and other natural materials—around which residents, friends, and passersby gather, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere amid the winter chill.
According to tradition, the symbolic purpose of these fires is to warm the newborn Christ. Around the flames, impromptu feasts are set up with wine, tsipouro, and grilled meats cooked over the coals. The largest gatherings take place on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.
The Kartsounos custom is a vibrant testament to the spirit of community and hospitality in Naoussa. Every year, locals faithfully and joyfully honor this unique tradition, keeping alive a flame that warms not only the “newborn Christ,” but also the hearts of all who take part.
On January 6th, the day of Epiphany, the Municipality of Naoussa holds the traditional Blessing of the Waters at various locations, with one of the most impressive ceremonies taking place at the river in the grove of Agios Nikolaos.
There, after the Holy Cross is cast into the waters, a unique local custom follows: a group of horse riders enters the river on horseback, adding a striking and symbolic dimension to the event. The natural beauty of the grove—an iconic location in Naoussa throughout the year—is further elevated on this day by the atmosphere of religious reverence and tradition.
The ceremony draws large crowds from both the local community and visitors, all eager to witness and take part in this unforgettable celebration of faith and heritage in a breathtaking setting.
The Genitsaroi and Boules custom is one of the most significant and emblematic traditional rituals of Naoussa, held annually during the Carnival season (Apokries). With roots tracing back to the 18th century—and elements echoing ancient Dionysian rites—it is revived each year with precision and reverence, preserving both its ceremonial and symbolic meaning.
This is a strictly choreographed ritual, involving only young men who form groups known as mpouloukia. They follow a strict protocol, from the ritual dressing and group formation to the procession route, music, dances, and even behavior. The female figure of the Boula is also played by a man, while the Genitsaros wears a traditional fustanella, wax mask (prosopo), silver adornments, and richly embroidered garments—all of which carry deep aesthetic and symbolic significance.
The custom begins on the first Sunday of Carnival with the ceremonial dressing and gathering of the mpouloukia. Around midday, they arrive at the Town Hall to receive formal permission from the mayor—a symbolic act that marks the start of their public appearance and dancing through the streets. The Genitsaroi, proud and silent with upright posture, and the Boula, modest and humble, follow a fixed route accompanied by the piercing sound of the zournas and the rhythmic beat of the daouli. Their procession winds through neighborhoods and culminates in Alonia Square, where the masks are removed and the dancers merge with the crowd in a communal dance.
The celebration continues on the following Sunday (Tyrini) and Clean Monday, this time without the masks, and concludes on the Sunday of Orthodoxy. On that day, all mpouloukia meet in the area of Spilaio for a grand festive gathering, with traditional pies, baked sweets, and plenty of local Naoussa wine.
Beyond its ceremonial beauty, the custom also holds historical weight. According to local lore, it commemorates the resistance of the people of Naoussa to the Ottoman child levy (paidomazoma) in 1705. That defiance is said to have inspired the first performance of the ritual the following year, with young men donning masks and dressing as armatoloi (freedom fighters), in a silent yet powerful gesture of resistance.
Unchanged through the centuries, Genitsaroi and Boules combines the sacred discipline of ritual with collective emotion and popular tradition. It remains one of the most authentic expressions of Naoussa’s cultural identity and communal memory.